Choose Your Station
Choosing which station to join is often as simple as looking at where you live. If you’re closer to Zionsville, Old Zionsville, or the western side of Upper Milford Township, Station 19 (Upper Milford Western District) is likely your home company. If you’re in Vera Cruz, Powder Valley, Dillinger, or the eastern and southern portions of the township, Station 28 (Citizens Fire Company of Vera Cruz) is your best fit. That said, both companies train and respond together — so you’re welcome to work with either, or even run with both, to maximize your impact and experience.
Station 19 provides primary coverage for the western and northwestern sections of Upper Milford Township, generally west of Shimerville Road and north of Vera Cruz Road. This area includes:
- Zionsville and Old Zionsville villages
- Hosensack Valley region
- Sigmund Road and Chestnut Street (PA-29/PA-100) corridor north toward Macungie
- Neighborhoods along School House Lane, Weilers Road, and Limeport Pike north to the township border
- Rural areas west toward Hereford Township and north to Lower Macungie Township
Station 19 also provides mutual aid to surrounding municipalities including Lower Milford Township, Macungie Borough, and portions of Hereford Township in Berks County.
Station 28 provides primary coverage for the southern and eastern sections of Upper Milford Township, generally east of Shimerville Road and south of Vera Cruz Road. This area includes:
- Vera Cruz village and surrounding neighborhoods
- Powder Valley and Dillinger communities
- Areas along Vera Cruz Road, Main Road East/West, and Chestnut Street (PA-29) south toward Lower Milford Township
- Neighborhoods on Indian Creek Road, Mill Road, and Churchview Road
- Rural districts east toward Salisbury Township and south toward the Bucks and Montgomery County borders
Station 28 also provides mutual aid to Station 19, Emmaus Borough, Lower Milford Township, and Salisbury Township, ensuring complete township-wide coverage.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to protecting life, property, and the environment through rapid response, public education, and professional emergency services.
Areas We Serve
Together, Upper Milford Township’s two volunteer fire companies — Station 19 (Upper Milford Western District) and Station 28 (Citizens Fire Company of Vera Cruz) — proudly serve our community with commitment, care, and constant readiness.
Our History
Rooted in decades of service, both departments have grown from small volunteer crews to modern, well-equipped fire companies grounded in tradition, skill, and community pride.
Emergency Services
Our highly trained members provide fire suppression, rescue operations, medical response, and hazardous material support 24/7. Whether responding in Zionsville, Vera Cruz, or surrounding areas, our goal is the same — to protect and serve.
The Numbers
Collectively responding to hundreds of calls each year, staffed by dedicated trained personnel and equipped with multiple fire and rescue apparatus, both departments stand ready for any emergency.
Community Focused
Beyond emergency response, we engage with our neighbors through fire prevention education, school visits, community events, and safety programs.
How to Join
Your community needs you. Whether you live closer to Station 19 or Station 28, both companies offer opportunities to serve — from firefighting and rescue to support roles and administration. Training and gear are provided, and your time and dedication will directly protect your neighbors.
Which Department to Join
In most cases, the department you join is determined by your location in Upper Milford Township. Those living in or near Zionsville and the western district typically join Station 19, while residents of Vera Cruz and surrounding areas often join Station 28. Not sure which is yours? Contact either department — we’ll help guide you to the right fit.
Training & Preparedness
Both Station 19 and Station 28 are committed to providing our members with the highest level of training. From basic firefighting skills to advanced rescue operations, hazardous materials response, and emergency medical support, our members train year-round to ensure they are ready for any situation. Whether you’re new to emergency services or bringing prior experience, you’ll receive the instruction, mentorship, and support you need to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join the fire department?
Joining is simple — contact either Station 19 or Station 28 directly, or visit during a drill night or community event. We’ll guide you through the application process, background clearances, and initial orientation. From there, you’ll begin training alongside our members to prepare for your role in the department.
What are the requirements to become a firefighter?
You must be at least 18 years old for interior firefighting, or at least 16 years old to join as a junior firefighter. All applicants must complete background checks and medical clearances, attend regular training, and maintain physical fitness to meet the demands of the job.
Are there ways to serve without being a firefighter?
Yes. Both departments offer non-firefighting roles, such as fire police, administrative support, fundraising, event planning, and community outreach. These roles are vital to the success of our operations and allow you to make a meaningful impact without entering hazardous environments.
What kind of training will I receive?
Members receive certified training through the Bucks County Community College Fire Academy system, including nationally recognized classes like Firefighter 1 & 2, vehicle rescue, hazardous materials operations, and emergency medical training. Ongoing drills and joint training sessions between Station 19 and Station 28 keep skills sharp based on department SOP/SOG’s and ensure teamwork during real emergencies.
Is your department paid or volunteer?
Both Station 19 and Station 28 are 100% volunteer organizations. Our members dedicate their time and skills to protect the community without financial compensation.
How is the fire department funded?
Funding comes from a combination of township support, fundraising events, community donations, and grants. These funds cover equipment, apparatus maintenance, protective gear, training, and station upkeep.
What areas do you cover?
Station 19 primarily serves the western and northern parts of Upper Milford Township, including Zionsville and surrounding areas. Station 28 primarily serves Vera Cruz and the eastern and southern sections of the township. Both stations provide mutual aid to each other and to neighboring municipalities when needed.